Residents in the North Sutherland Iomairt aig an Oir (Initiative at the Edge) area are being encouraged to be more energy efficient by using energy efficient light bulbs, which are being given away free.

North Sutherland Community Development Forum has been working with John Marchbanks, Energy Efficiency Commitment Manager for Scottish and Southern Energy, who have provided the free bulbs.

It is hoped that the free light bulbs - bayonet 20w Sylvanias - will encourage householders in the area to become more aware of energy efficiency practices whilst reducing their electricity bills. These light bulbs use 70 per cent less energy and last ten times longer than ordinary bulbs.

Local post offices and service points are distributing the energy efficient light bulbs and each permanent household is allowed up to three each.  The bulbs are limited so residents are encouraged to get their bulbs as soon as possible as they will be distributed on a first come first served basis.

Fiona Limbrey, employed by Caithness and Sutherland Enterprise (CASE) as Iomairt aig an Oir officer for the area said: "We are very pleased to have been able to work with Scottish and Southern Energy on this project. 

"The bulbs that we are providing will help to benefit the environment and the communities in this fragile area by reducing electricity bills and making North Sutherland a little more efficient in its energy use."

The energy efficient light bulbs can be picked up from the following points:
* Residents of Halladale, Strathy and Melvich - Melvich Post office
* Residents of Armadale - Armadale Post Office (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday between 11am and 1pm).
* Residents of Bettyhill and Strathnaver - Bettyhill Service Point (Mon to Friday between 9am and 12 noon).
* Residents of Skerray - Skerray Post Office.
* Residents of Tongue - Tongue Post Office.
* Residents of Melness - Melness Post Office.
* Residents of Durness - Durness Service point
* Residents of Altnaharra - a delivery of light bulbs is being organised and residents will be informed about a collection point in due course.